Solar Decathlon 2011

September 29, 2011 3:39 PM

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon

Image 1of/43

Caption

Close

Image 1 of 43

The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, comfortable, healthy and attractive, harnessing the sun to produce at least as much energy and hot water as they consume.
Teams and homes are rated or judged based on 10 categories: architecture, market appeal, engineering, communications, affordability, comfort zone, hot water, appliances, home entertainment and energy balance.
The Department of Energy has hosted the contest every two years since 2002. The current Solar Decathlon runs through Oct. 2 in Washington, D.C.
Here's an overview of teams working on their homes on Sept. 19, 2011, followed by pictures and descriptions of all of this year's entries. less

The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, comfortable, healthy and attractive, ... more

The exterior of E-Cube, by Team Belgium, is pictured at night on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The building is envisioned as an affordable kit that can be assembled in days, thanks to such approaches as:
A façade made of fiber-cement boards with the same dimensions as the triple-glazed window elements;
An interior stripped of most conventional finishes, saving on materials and easing construction;
A standard pallet rack system that creates the main structure using a bolt-less assembly process;
A plug-and-play electrical wiring system that is integrated into the structure for easy installation;
A floor plan that can be expanded by adding more floor panels on the existing beams. less

The exterior of E-Cube, by Team Belgium, is pictured at night on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The building is envisioned as an affordable kit that can ... more

The exterior of E-Cube , by Team Belgium, is pictured at night on... Photo-1634934.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 3 of 43

The interior of E-Cube, by Team Belgium, is pictured at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The building is envisioned as an affordable kit that can be assembled in days, thanks to such approaches as:
A façade made of fiber-cement boards with the same dimensions as the triple-glazed window elements;
An interior stripped of most conventional finishes, saving on materials and easing construction;
A standard pallet rack system that creates the main structure using a bolt-less assembly process;
A plug-and-play electrical wiring system that is integrated into the structure for easy installation;
A floor plan that can be expanded by adding more floor panels on the existing beams. less

The interior of E-Cube, by Team Belgium, is pictured at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The building is envisioned as an affordable kit that can be assembled in days, ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of E-Cube , by Team Belgium, is pictured at the U.S.... Photo-1634932.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 4 of 43

Team Tidewater Virginia (Old Dominion University and Hampton University) works on Unit 6 Unplugged on Sept 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. Unit 6 is a modular house conceived as part of a six-unit building that would fit into a historic city center, and features:
Architecture inspired by the arts and crafts-style homes found throughout the center-city neighborhoods of Norfolk, Va.;
A porch with motorized windows that allow it to be open to the outside or enclosed;
A rain screen cladding made of plywood panels and vertical battens;
Sensors that keep the heating and air conditioning system from operating when windows or doors are open;
Light switches powered by remote transmitters that can be placed anywhere in the house and never require replacement batteries. less

Team Tidewater Virginia (Old Dominion University and Hampton University) works on Unit 6 Unplugged on Sept 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. Unit 6 is a modular ... more

The interior of Unit 6 Unplugged, by Tidewater Virginia (Old Dominion University and Hampton University), is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. Unit 6 is a modular house conceived as part of a six-unit building that would fit into a historic city center, and features:
Architecture inspired by the arts and crafts-style homes found throughout the center-city neighborhoods of Norfolk, Va.;
A porch with motorized windows that allow it to be open to the outside or enclosed;
A rain screen cladding made of plywood panels and vertical battens;
Sensors that keep the heating and air conditioning system from operating when windows or doors are open;
Light switches powered by remote transmitters that can be placed anywhere in the house and never require replacement batteries. less

The interior of Unit 6 Unplugged, by Tidewater Virginia (Old Dominion University and Hampton University), is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. Unit 6 is a modular ... more

University of Tennessee students work on Living Light at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
A design inspired by the cantilever barns of southern Appalachia;
A dynamic double facade system made of alternating translucent and transparent panes of glass, with horizontal blinds between the panes;
An energy recovery ventilator that harvests air through the double facade system to supply the house with passively warmed or cooled fresh air;
Sensors that automatically manage the electric lighting, including color-changing LED strip lights along the facade;
A home automation system that can be programmed with preferred conditions for activities, such as watching a movie or entertaining dinner guests;
Cylindrical solar modules that capture sunlight across their entire surface. less

University of Tennessee students work on Living Light at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
A design inspired by the cantilever barns of southern ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

University of Tennessee students work on Living Light at the U.S.... Photo-1635361.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 7 of 43

The interior of Living Light, by the University of Tennessee, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
A design inspired by the cantilever barns of southern Appalachia;
A dynamic double facade system made of alternating translucent and transparent panes of glass, with horizontal blinds between the panes;
An energy recovery ventilator that harvests air through the double facade system to supply the house with passively warmed or cooled fresh air;
Sensors that automatically manage the electric lighting, including color-changing LED strip lights along the facade;
A home automation system that can be programmed with preferred conditions for activities, such as watching a movie or entertaining dinner guests;
Cylindrical solar modules that capture sunlight across their entire surface. less

The interior of Living Light, by the University of Tennessee, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
A design inspired by the cantilever barns of ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of Living Light , by the University of Tennessee, is... Photo-1635359.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 8 of 43

Purdue students work on INhome at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The exterior is designed to blends in to a typical Midwestern neighborhood.

Purdue students work on INhome at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The exterior is designed to blends in to a typical Midwestern neighborhood.

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

Purdue students work on INhome at the U.S. Department of Energy... Photo-1635332.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 9 of 43

The interior of INhome, by Purdue University, is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A design that blends in to a typical Midwestern neighborhood;
A self-watering biowall with vertically arranged plants;
A heat-pump hot-water heater that uses the ambient air inside the house to produce hot water. less

The interior of INhome, by Purdue University, is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A design that blends in to a typical Midwestern ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of INhome , by Purdue University, is shown at the... Photo-1635315.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 10 of 43

The exterior of enCORE, by The Ohio State University, is shown under construction at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
An adjustable exterior screen that provides privacy and protection from the sun;
A solar thermal hot air system;
Natural lighting throughout the house based on activity areas. less

The exterior of enCORE, by The Ohio State University, is shown under construction at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
An adjustable exterior screen ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The exterior of enCORE , by The Ohio State University, is shown... Photo-1635250.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 11 of 43

The interior of enCORE, by The Ohio State University, is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
An adjustable exterior screen that provides privacy and protection from the sun;
A solar thermal hot air system;
Natural lighting throughout the house based on activity areas. less

The interior of enCORE, by The Ohio State University, is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
An adjustable exterior screen that provides privacy ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of enCORE , by The Ohio State University, is shown at... Photo-1635245.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 12 of 43

First Light, by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand,is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington D.C. The house, inspired by the tranditional "Kiwi bach" New Zealand holiday home, features:
A glazed section with A triple-glazed skylight and large bi-fold doors to let in outside air and light;
A cedar canopy supporting a solar array that produces hot water and energy;
Detachable western red cedar cladding;
A drying cupboard that dries clothes quickly by pumping solar-heated hot water through a heat exchanger;
Recycled sheep's wool insulation. less

First Light, by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand,is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington D.C. The house, inspired by the tranditional "Kiwi ... more

First Light , by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand,is... Photo-1635240.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 13 of 43

The interior of First Light, by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand,is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington D.C. The house, inspired by the traditional "Kiwi bach" New Zealand holiday home, features:
A glazed section with A triple-glazed skylight and large bi-fold doors to let in outside air and light;
A cedar canopy supporting a solar array that produces hot water and energy;
Detatchable western red cedar cladding;
A drying cupboard that dries clothes quickly by pumping solar-heated hot water through a heat exchanger;
Recycled sheep's wool insulation. less

The interior of First Light, by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand,is shown at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington D.C. The house, inspired by the traditional "Kiwi ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro, Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of First Light , by Victoria University of... Photo-1635239.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 14 of 43

Sections of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), are craned into place at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go on the roofs of existing mid-rise buildings and features:
64 poplar wood-framed "building blocks" that can be custom fitted with glazed, opaque, louvered or screened cladding, based on such variables as solar orientation, predominant wind direction, preferred view and interior layout;
A rooftop-mounted solar trellis that protects the house from heat gain and is easy to upgrade with new solar-power technologies;
A radiant floor system that uses solar heat. less

Sections of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), are craned into place at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go on the ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

Sections of Solar Roofpod , by Team New York (The City College of... Photo-1635229.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 15 of 43

The exterior of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), is seen on Sept. 20, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go on the roofs of existing mid-rise buildings and features:
64 poplar wood-framed "building blocks" that can be custom fitted with glazed, opaque, louvered or screened cladding, based on such variables as solar orientation, predominant wind direction, preferred view and interior layout;
A rooftop-mounted solar trellis that protects the house from heat gain and is easy to upgrade with new solar-power technologies;
A radiant floor system that uses solar heat. less

The exterior of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), is seen on Sept. 20, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go ... more

The exterior of Solar Roofpod , by Team New York (The City College... Photo-1635217.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 16 of 43

The interior of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go on the roofs of existing mid-rise buildings and features:
64 poplar wood-framed "building blocks" that can be custom fitted with glazed, opaque, louvered or screened cladding, based on such variables as solar orientation, predominant wind direction, preferred view and interior layout;
A rooftop-mounted solar trellis that protects the house from heat gain and is easy to upgrade with new solar-power technologies;
A radiant floor system that uses solar heat. less

The interior of Solar Roofpod, by Team New York (The City College of New York), is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home is intended to go on the roofs of ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of Solar Roofpod , by Team New York (The City College... Photo-1635209.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 17 of 43

Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of Technology) works on ENJOY House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is designed for a couple retiring to the Jersey shore and features:
Pre-cast concrete insulated panels that are efficient and require little upkeep:
Wall perforations that allow in light and dramatically improve thermal performance;
A roof with an inverted-hip shape calibrated for optimal solar energy and rainwater collection;
Solar thermal tubes that heat water for home use and the hydronic radiant floor. less

Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of Technology) works on ENJOY House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is designed for a couple retiring ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of... Photo-1635183.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 18 of 43

The interior of ENJOY House, by Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of Technology) is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is designed for a couple retiring to the Jersey shore and features:
Pre-cast concrete insulated panels that are efficient and require little upkeep:
Wall perforations that allow in light and dramatically improve thermal performance;
A roof with an inverted-hip shape calibrated for optimal solar energy and rainwater collection;
Solar thermal tubes that heat water for home use and the hydronic radiant floor. less

The interior of ENJOY House, by Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the New Jersey Institute of Technology) is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is designed for ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of ENJOY House , by Team New Jersey (Rutgers and the... Photo-1635179.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 19 of 43

Self-Reliance, by Middlebury College, is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A New England farmhouse-style gable roof that sheds snow and rain;
A green wall in the kitchen and outdoor planters that provide space for growing fresh produce year-round;
An air-to-air heat exchanger that circulates air through aluminum ducts and feeds condensed moisture to the green wall;
A kitchen counter peninsula that encourages communal cooking;
Triple-paned windows with cork-insulated frames;
Stack effect ventilation, which pulls in cooler air toward the ground and vents out warmer air from the skylights. less

Self-Reliance, by Middlebury College, is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A New England farmhouse-style gable roof that sheds ... more

The interior of Self-Reliance, by Middlebury College, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A New England farmhouse-style gable roof that sheds snow and rain;
A green wall in the kitchen and outdoor planters that provide space for growing fresh produce year-round;
An air-to-air heat exchanger that circulates air through aluminum ducts and feeds condensed moisture to the green wall;
A kitchen counter peninsula that encourages communal cooking;
Triple-paned windows with cork-insulated frames;
Stack effect ventilation, which pulls in cooler air toward the ground and vents out warmer air from the skylights. less

The interior of Self-Reliance, by Middlebury College, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The home features:
A New England farmhouse-style gable roof that sheds ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of Self-Reliance , by Middlebury College, is seen at... Photo-1635116.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 21 of 43

The exterior of WaterShed, by the University of Maryland, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" modules, separating public and private spaces, connected by a third "hyphen" module, with the bathroom. It features:
A split butterfly roofline, with water running off of each shed module into a central water axis, where it's joined with "gray" water from the house's shower, clothes washer, and dishwasher and sent into a wetland for filtration and reuse;
A garden, edible wall system a composting station "to illustrate the potential for improved health, energy, and cost savings with a complete carbon cycle program";
A liquid desiccant waterfall that is a design feature and provides humidity control;
A home automation system that monitors and adjusts temperature, humidity, lighting and other parameters. less

The exterior of WaterShed, by the University of Maryland, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" modules, separating public and ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The exterior of WaterShed , by the University of Maryland, is seen... Photo-1635085.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 22 of 43

University of Maryland student Isabel Enerson works on landscaping of WaterShed on Sept. 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" modules, separating public and private spaces, connected by a third "hyphen" module, with the bathroom. It features:
A split butterfly roofline, with water running off of each shed module into a central water axis, where it's joined with "gray" water from the house's shower, clothes washer, and dishwasher and sent into a wetland for filtration and reuse;
A garden, edible wall system a composting station "to illustrate the potential for improved health, energy, and cost savings with a complete carbon cycle program";
A liquid desiccant waterfall that is a design feature and provides humidity control;
A home automation system that monitors and adjusts temperature, humidity, lighting and other parameters. less

University of Maryland student Isabel Enerson works on landscaping of WaterShed on Sept. 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" ... more

University of Maryland student Isabel Enerson works on landscaping... Photo-1635084.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 23 of 43

The interior of WaterShed, by the University of Maryland, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" modules, separating public and private spaces, connected by a third "hyphen" module, with the bathroom. It features:
A split butterfly roofline, with water running off of each shed module into a central water axis, where it's joined with "gray" water from the house's shower, clothes washer, and dishwasher and sent into a wetland for filtration and reuse;
A garden, edible wall system a composting station "to illustrate the potential for improved health, energy, and cost savings with a complete carbon cycle program";
A liquid desiccant waterfall that is a design feature and provides humidity control;
A home automation system that monitors and adjusts temperature, humidity, lighting and other parameters. less

The interior of WaterShed, by the University of Maryland, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is built from two "shed" modules, separating public and ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of WaterShed , by the University of Maryland, is seen... Photo-1635074.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 24 of 43

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign team works on Re_home at
the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011,in Washington, D.C. The home consists of two modules that can be transported on one trailer for rapid deployment to accommodate a family left without a home in a disaster. Features include:
Solar-power panels that can be installed flat on the roof before shipment and lifted to the optimal angle on site, and act as a shading canopy across the southern face of the house;
A large central living area with natural lighting and innovative storage spaces;
Exterior paneling that is made from 60 percent rice husks, 22 percent common salt and 18 percent mineral oil and can be personalized with different finishes. less

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign team works on Re_home at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011,in Washington, D.C. The home consists of two modules that can be transported on one ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign team works on... Photo-1635040.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 25 of 43

The interior of Re_home, by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, is seen at
the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011,in Washington, D.C. The home consists of two modules that can be transported on one trailer for rapid deployment to accommodate a family left without a home in a disaster. Features include:
Solar-power panels that can be installed flat on the roof before shipment and lifted to the optimal angle on site, and act as a shading canopy across the southern face of the house;
A large central living area with natural lighting and innovative storage spaces;
Exterior paneling that is made from 60 percent rice husks, 22 percent common salt and 18 percent mineral oil and can be personalized with different finishes. less

The interior of Re_home, by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011,in Washington, D.C. The home consists of two modules that can be ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of Re_home , by the University of Illinois at... Photo-1635039.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 26 of 43

An exterior view of 4D Home, by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts College of Art and Design and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell) on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington. D.C. The home features:
Asymmetrical timber trellises that provide seasonal shading and a covered transition to the interior;
A layout that can be easily reconfigured by two sliding partition walls;
A refrigerator that uses less electricity per year than a 60-Watt light bulb. less

An exterior view of 4D Home, by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts College of Art and Design and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell) on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon ... more

An exterior view of 4D Home , by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts... Photo-1635109.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 27 of 43

An interior view of 4D Home, by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts College of Art and Design and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell) at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington. D.C. The home features:
Asymmetrical timber trellises that provide seasonal shading and a covered transition to the interior;
A layout that can be easily reconfigured by two sliding partition walls;
A refrigerator that uses less electricity per year than a 60-Watt light bulb. less

An interior view of 4D Home, by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts College of Art and Design and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell) at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington. ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

An interior view of 4D Home , by Team Massachusetts (Massachusetts... Photo-1635107.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 28 of 43

Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) lowers a module of FLeX House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The House base module is designed for a young couple, possibly with a small child. New modules can be added as the family grows. Other features include:
A compact design that can be shipped on one truck and quickly deployed at a building site;
Cypress louvers that shield the roof and walls from the hot Florida sun;
A wall that opens to allow cool air in during mild months;
Corrugated metal siding that reflects sunlight and is durable and economical;
Landscaping that treats stormwater runoff, provides food and moderates temperatures;
A liquid desiccant duct system that connects to an energy recovery ventilator to dehumidify incoming air. less

Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) lowers a module of FLeX House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State... Photo-1635029.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 29 of 43

The exterior of FLeX House, by Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The House base module is designed for a young couple, possibly with a small child. New modules can be added as the family grows. Other features include:
A compact design that can be shipped on one truck and quickly deployed at a building site;
Cypress louvers that shield the roof and walls from the hot Florida sun;
A wall that opens to allow cool air in during mild months;
Corrugated metal siding that reflects sunlight and is durable and economical;
Landscaping that treats stormwater runoff, provides food and moderates temperatures;
A liquid desiccant duct system that connects to an energy recovery ventilator to dehumidify incoming air. less

The exterior of FLeX House, by Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. ... more

The exterior of FLeX House , by Team Florida (The University of... Photo-1635026.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 30 of 43

The interior of FLeX House, by Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The House base module is designed for a young couple, possibly with a small child. New modules can be added as the family grows. Other features include:
A compact design that can be shipped on one truck and quickly deployed at a building site;
Cypress louvers that shield the roof and walls from the hot Florida sun;
A wall that opens to allow cool air in during mild months;
Corrugated metal siding that reflects sunlight and is durable and economical;
Landscaping that treats stormwater runoff, provides food and moderates temperatures;
A liquid desiccant duct system that connects to an energy recovery ventilator to dehumidify incoming air. less

The interior of FLeX House, by Team Florida (The University of South Florida, Florida State University, The University of Central Florida and The University of Florida) is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of FLeX House , by Team Florida (The University of... Photo-1635025.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 31 of 43

Florida International University's team builds the perFORM[D]ance House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
Louver panels that can open to extend the interior space to the exterior;
A fully retractable glazing system on the windows to provide relief from the heat and humidity of South Florida;
An exterior deck with a garden and biofiltration pond;
Planted beds with native landscaping that reduce storm-water runoff from the roof and filter our polluting sediment;
A ductless air conditioning system with uses micro-climate zoning;
A station that allows homeowners to monitor energy production and use, solar panel performance, and water consumption. less

Florida International University's team builds the perFORM[D]ance House at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
Louver panels that can open to extend the ... more

The interior of the perFORM[D]ance House, by Florida International University, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
Louver panels that can open to extend the interior space to the exterior;
A fully retractable glazing system on the windows to provide relief from the heat and humidity of South Florida;
An exterior deck with a garden and biofiltration pond;
Planted beds with native landscaping that reduce storm-water runoff from the roof and filter our polluting sediment;
A ductless air conditioning system with uses micro-climate zoning;
A station that allows homeowners to monitor energy production and use, solar panel performance, and water consumption. less

The interior of the perFORM[D]ance House, by Florida International University, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house features:
Louver panels that can open ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of the perFORM[D]ance House , by Florida... Photo-1635006.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 33 of 43

Team China works on Y Container at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house combines six recycled shipping containers into Y-shaped house designed for easy transport and assembly, and affordability for young couples in pricey Shanghai. It features: Solar heat collection for hot water and floor heating; Vacuum insulation and phase-change materials that block heat transfer and moderate the interior temperature; A natural ventilation tunnel in the middle of the house that regulates air distribution and the fresh air supply without using energy. less

Team China works on Y Container at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house combines six recycled shipping containers into Y-shaped house designed for easy transport and ... more

Photo: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

Team China works on Y Container at the U.S. Department of Energy... Photo-1634994.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 34 of 43

The interior of Y Container, by Team China. is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house combines six recycled shipping containers into Y-shaped house designed for easy transport and assembly, and affordability for young couples in pricey Shanghai. It features:
Solar heat collection for hot water and floor heating;
Vacuum insulation and phase-change materials that block heat transfer and moderate the interior temperature;
A natural ventilation tunnel in the middle of the house that regulates air distribution and the fresh air supply without using energy. less

The interior of Y Container, by Team China. is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house combines six recycled shipping containers into Y-shaped house designed ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

The interior of Y Container , by Team China. is seen at the U.S.... Photo-1634991.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 35 of 43

A student from works on the solar panels atop TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living), by the University of Calgary, on Sept. 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is inspired by native tepees and designed to provide housing for Canadian First Nations people. Features include:
Materials, color and rounded shape that reflect customary art, the natural environment and the tepee;
South-facing windows that "relate to the sun as a traditional source of energy and life";
A flexible space with room for storage, recreation, and communal meals;
Magnesium oxide-based structural insulated panels that are highly resistant to fire and mold;
A high-performance solar-power system engineered for Alberta's harsh winter climate;
A highly effective air-to-water heat pump used space conditioning and hot water production. less

A student from works on the solar panels atop TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living), by the University of Calgary, on Sept. 19, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in ... more

A student from works on the solar panels atop TRTL (Technological... Photo-1634986.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 36 of 43

The interior of TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living), by the University of Calgary, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is inspired by native tepees and designed to provide housing for Canadian First Nations people. Features include:
Materials, color and rounded shape that reflect customary art, the natural environment and the tepee;
South-facing windows that "relate to the sun as a traditional source of energy and life";
A flexible space with room for storage, recreation, and communal meals;
Magnesium oxide-based structural insulated panels that are highly resistant to fire and mold;
A high-performance solar-power system engineered for Alberta's harsh winter climate;
A highly effective air-to-water heat pump used space conditioning and hot water production. less

The interior of TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living), by the University of Calgary, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, in Washington, D.C. The house is inspired by ... more

The exterior of CHIP, by the Southern California Institute of Architecture and California Institute of Technology, is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The home aims to be an affordable, small-footprint dwelling that can go on infill lots or areas allowing shared lots. It features:
A flexible central space with large apertures that can open;
Stepped levels to distinguish interior spaces without compartmentalization;
A exterior skin made of low-cost billboard material fastened with zip ties, dowel rods, and lag screws, protecting the house and containing its "outsulation";
A whole-house fan that performs a complete air change in less than 20 minutes;
A custom iPad application that shows real-time energy use and controls sun shades;
3-D cameras that track movement and adjust lights accordingly. less

The exterior of CHIP, by the Southern California Institute of Architecture and California Institute of Technology, is seen on Sept. 23, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, ... more

The interior of CHIP, by the Southern California Institute of Architecture and California Institute of Technology, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The home aims to be an affordable, small-footprint dwelling that can go on infill lots or areas allowing shared lots. It features:
A flexible central space with large apertures that can open;
Stepped levels to distinguish interior spaces without compartmentalization;
A exterior skin made of low-cost billboard material fastened with zip ties, dowel rods, and lag screws, protecting the house and containing its "outsulation";
A whole-house fan that performs a complete air change in less than 20 minutes;
A custom iPad application that shows real-time energy use and controls sun shades;
3-D cameras that track movement and adjust lights accordingly. less

The interior of CHIP, by the Southern California Institute of Architecture and California Institute of Technology, is seen at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 in Washington, D.C. The home aims ... more

Empowerhouse, by Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens Institute of Technology, is seen on Sept. 22, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C. The one-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot house includes:
Front and back porches, with built-in composting and a cooking surface in back;
A loft that provides private space and lets natural light reach the main living area;
Use of energy modeling to optimize the shape, building envelope, window placement and shading;
A central flex Space with built-in shelving;
Fluorescent and LED lights with wireless switches and occupancy/daylight sensors;
An energy recovery ventilation system;
Green roof modules integrated into the solar electric system to moderate temperature extremes on the roof. less

Empowerhouse, by Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens Institute of Technology, is seen on Sept. 22, 2011 at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C. The one-bedroom, ... more

Empowerhouse , by Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens... Photo-1634921.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 40 of 43

An interior view of Empowerhouse, by Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens Institute of Technology. The one-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot house includes:
Front and back porches, with built-in composting and a cooking surface in back;
A loft that provides private space and lets natural light reach the main living area;
Use of energy modeling to optimize the shape, building envelope, window placement and shading;
A central flex Space with built-in shelving;
Fluorescent and LED lights with wireless switches and occupancy/daylight sensors;
An energy recovery ventilation system;
Green roof modules integrated into the solar electric system to moderate temperature extremes on the roof. less

An interior view of Empowerhouse, by Parsons The New School for Design and Stevens Institute of Technology. The one-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot house includes:
Front and back porches, with built-in composting ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

An interior view of Empowerhouse , by Parsons The New School for... Photo-1634916.31144 - seattlepi.com

Image 41 of 43

Jacqueline Stewart of Appalachian State University explains the importance of bifacial solar panels, top, on The Solar Homestead while distributing foldable hats that double as a brochure, at the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011. The panels collect power on both sides, from direct and reflected light, while providing filtered daylight and protection from the elements. less

Jacqueline Stewart of Appalachian State University explains the importance of bifacial solar panels, top, on The Solar Homestead while distributing foldable hats that double as a brochure, at the U.S. ... more

An interior view of The Solar Homestead, designed by The Appalachian State University Solar Decathlon team for residents of Asheville, N.C. The design was inspired by traditional Appalachian settlements, with seven modules connected to form a great porch. The modules include a 833-square-foot, two-bedroom house, a separate, 120-square-foot flex space with a half bathroom and outdoor shower, and outbuildings inspired by lean-to sheds. The home also has: 42 "bifacial" solar panels, which collect power on both sides, from direct and reflected light, while providing filtered daylight and protection from the elements;
An on-demand solar hot-water system;
A Trombe wall filled with phase-change material to store heat throughout the day and release it at night. less

An interior view of The Solar Homestead, designed by The Appalachian State University Solar Decathlon team for residents of Asheville, N.C.
The design was inspired by traditional Appalachian settlements, with ... more

Photo: Jim Tetro/U.S. Department Of Energy Solar Decathlon

An interior view of The Solar Homestead , designed by The... Photo-1634905.31144 - seattlepi.com